Those competing at Urban Souls Dance Company‘s “Dancing with The Houston Stars” gala at Grooves Restaurant and Bar heard comforting words from NBA legend and former “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC) competitor Clyde Drexler. “I understand how hard this is,” he said, adding that to dance for a great cause was the mission.

The 3rd annual event raised $27,000, up from $18,000 in 2012, for Urban Souls, a non-profit performance and social arts organization that blends urban life with dance theater. (The company was founded by Artistic Director Harrison Guy, who works with General Manager Walter Hull. Drexler’s niece, Candiss Drexler-Richardson, is a company dancer.)

The evening, which was attended by more than 200 people, opened with a performance by 2012 Dancing with The Houston Stars champions Jade Gold and Byron Lundy. Saxophonist Kyle Turner entertained guests earlier at a VIP reception.